Kinesiotape

The Kinesiotape is an alternative to the conventional tape bandage. Kinesiology is an alternative medical concept, which is mainly used in movement therapy. Nowadays it is also used in some subjects of internal medicine, gynecology, lymphology and neurology.

The main difference to tape is the elasticity of the kinesiotape. Kinesiotapes should be applied by an expert sports therapist or after long practice alone under professional supervision. The effects that the Kinesiotape is intended to achieve initially also include the stabilization of over-glued joints, the regulation of muscle tension and activity with increased self-perception.

In addition, the compression and relief of soft tissues in case of inflammation and blood circulation problems. In addition, there are various effects that are suspected according to experience reports. These include the stimulation of the body’s own pain reduction, the activation of the self-healing powers and the effect on fasciae and meridians of the body.

For the skin and subcutaneous tissue, Kinesiotapes are said to have a positive effect on blood circulation, lymph drainage, temperature and pain receptors, and fluid circulation. It is even used in internal medicine because of its supposed effect on the internal abdominal organs, where it is said to work similar to a massage. The effects of elastic kinesiotape are controversial in contrast to conventional tape bandages. So far the effects are based on experience reports. Large-scale studies have not yet been carried out and the effect has therefore not been scientifically proven.

Tape bandage at ankle joint

The ankle joint consists of an upper and a lower part. It is a common therapeutic area in sports medicine, as it is very susceptible to injuries. It is a joint with a relatively large freedom of movement and a heavy weight load due to the entire body weight.

It is supported by tendons and ligaments, but even slight bending can cause overstretching, tears and injuries to the joint.Taping can be used here as a therapeutic supplement and for prevention during sports practice. As the sole therapy it should not be used after injuries. The effect of the taut tape is similar to the function of a plaster cast.

The tight application on the skin slightly restricts the freedom of movement so that the joint is stabilized and splinted. The tape bandage is also used for acute injuries. Through targeted compression from the outside, bruising can be reduced despite injury, swelling can be held back and blood circulation maintained.

Before applying the tape bandage, the affected area should be dry and clean. It is also advisable to remove hair from the skin in the area before. The tape should then be applied to the ankle joint at a 90° angle after the injury or just before the sporting activity.

Often two tapes are applied, one inside and one outside, running from the lower leg to the edge or back of the foot. This way the tape is tightly attached and the main direction of movement, the extension of the foot, is restricted and splinted. Kinesiologic tapes can also be used, especially as a preventive measure before sport to increase physical self-perception.